> I doubt you could buy M16 anywhere in the US sans the black market. You can, but they're NFA weapons, and require the tax stamp, extra background check, and

> I doubt you could buy M16 anywhere in the US sans the black market. You can, but they're NFA weapons, and require the tax stamp, extra background check, and all that. They're also rather expensive ($15,000ish or more depending on the vintage)--pocket change for cartels, of course, but when you're looking at the limited quantity/availability and high price, it's more cost-effective to make, buy, or steal something sourced cheaper. Plus, nearly all are presently owned by collectors who aren't as likely to let them go except to other collectors unless it goes to auction for whatever reason.